Roland GO:Keys 5 Review

[@dinos2119]

Finally to see a really comprehensive review with instructions on KZbin. Constructive, precise, instructional, and honest. Better than any company presenter. I watched around 20 videos about this keyboard and they are so annoying

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much very appreciated! And thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@GusLozadaTV]

Hi Tony! Wow, this is by far the best review I've seen of this keyboard with the plus you recorded it all through its own Mic input straight USB to your phone. Impressive. Thanks so much for the effort!!!

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much, very appreciated! It is a pretty impressive keyboard - more videos on the way! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@JesusGamayon]

Hello Tony, I just want to thank you for this review, and all the other reviews you have made. I based my decision to buy GoKeys based on this review, which is very helpful to me. Looking forward for more of your videos, thank you!

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much, glad the review was helpful! And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@berniarmstrong]

This deep dive into the keyboard will help so many potential buyers, like myself, feel like they could handle the beast. So many modern keyboards have great features, but their user interface is daunting and requires a much younger memory than mine to master. Thanks so much for this detailed, but clear tour of this amazing keyboard.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much, glad you found the video helpful! And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@4mp3r]

Hands down best piano/keyboard reviews on the internet! Thank you for your work. I’m a guitar player and after watching dozens of reviews of various keyboards I ended up ordering Go Keys 3 to learn some piano and theory - looking forward to lay my hands on it!

[@PianoTone]

Hey thanks a lot! And congrats on your GO:Keys I think you'll love it. Here's a link to some reviews for online piano courses I've taken that I recommend if you want to check them out: kzbin.info/aero/PL_W0EMCT9oNb7OQ7TiB0WHZv7K4k1bScA Hope your Roland arrives soon! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@mikebullock76]

Thank you for this comprehensive video on the Roland Go Keys 5. I have just purchased this along with the wireless adapter with cloud membership. I really enjoyed your run through of the keyboard and showing how you navigate the keyboard. I notice there is hardly anyone out there talking or reviewing this keyboard. I can’t wait to get to try it out as it will be more portable for me than the FP30 to take to church ❤

[@PianoTone]

Thanks glad you enjoyed the video! And you will find it a LOT more portable than the FP-30! Hope you enjoy it! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@EddySniper777]

Thanks for an actual review, instead of biased promo videos most youtubers did for these keys. Comparison to other brands and models was quite useful.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much, glad you liked the review. And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@and71small]

Owned a GoKeys 3 for a few months now and loving it, great video essentially you've made a video manual, good explanation on some of its more hidden talents as the manual is a bit vague. Great work thank you.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much glad you found the review helpful! And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@lilchris26]

Thanks for this, I am planning on buying one of these in the new year when the shops have stock again. I have always preffered Yamaha arranger keyboards, used to have a PSX900, but this board is fantastic for the price. At the moment I mainly play piano, I have a Roland FP30X in one room but no room for a large arranger, this Go keys 5 seems ideal for me. Excellent review, I have subscribed now too thanks again.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much glad you found the review helpful. If you like your FP-30X you will like the GO:Keys as well. Thanks for subscribing!

[@GatisKaulinsh]

I guess this is the only useful review on the KZbin for GO:KEYS 5 and even If I have one myself I just learned that it is actually possible to OVERDUB on USB! That's awesome news for me!

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much gald you found the video helpful! And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@allankent1011]

Absolutely wonderful information. Cannot thank you enough for showing the facilities of this keyboard in such a comprehensive way. Cannot wait to try out your suggestions and look forward to your future guidance.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much, very appreciated! And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@superjet2771]

You did an amazing job on this video. Great sounds and I love the fact you took the time to add visual text for the hearing impaired. 🙃

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much that's very appreciated! Glad you found the video useful. And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@domlisboa4024]

Thanks so much for such a comprehensive and informative review.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed the review! And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@brickmissing8295]

Great comprehensive review - thanks!

[@PianoTone]

Thanks a lot glad you liked the review! And thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@Mr.PhatsVarietyVibesShow]

@@PianoTone Yamaha EZ310 61-key Portable Keyboard with Lighted Keys and PA130 Power Adapter i saw this brand new product . what do you make of this?

[@elijahlucian]

I have the go:keys original, and always found the key action 'weird', that's the only way I described it, Excited to try the GK3/5.

[@PianoTone]

To be honest I'm not sure exactly how different the action is, but . . . it's different (and better) on the new models. I found the original one to be kind of shallow and weird feeling (hey we agree lol!). Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@HarryD-q4h]

Extremely helpful overview of this Instrument. Took delivery of one yesterday and your video is helping brilliantly with my orientation around its controls and features. Thank you 👏

[@PianoTone]

That's awesome, glad the video is helping! I'm planning quite a few more on the GO:Keys, so stay tuned! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@HarryD-q4h]

@@PianoTone I certainly will stay tuned, thanks once again 👍

[@stevehofer8312]

Thanks for posting this video. I bought the Casio CT-S500 last year, and when Roland came out with these keyboards my first thought was "should I have waited", but from your review, I can tell based on what is important to me, I made the right choice. I like the theoretical expandability of the Roland, but a lot of this is more theoretical than practical. With 900-1000 sounds, you might not really be looking for other sounds to keep track of. Casio sold me with the CT-S500's synth features. In addition to the pitch bend wheel it has a modulation knob (which can also be used for other purposes). Roland doesn't have this. Casio also has two big assignable knobs that usually default to filter cutoff and resonance, the most commonly adjusted synth parameters in live playing. Roland doesn't have that. Casio has portamento. One of the great things the CTS-500 shares with the Roland Go-Keys is a bluetooth midi interface and a music rest so pairing either with an iPad is easy and almost a must-do. If you hook your home keyboard up to your iPad (or iPhone), there is a whole universe available to you including Roland ZenBeats 2.0, a free mobile oriented DAW that includes a reduced feature version of Roland's Zen Core synth called ZC1. The free version only has 60 presets, but for $14,99 you can get a version with 2500 presets (editable) and 90 included effects. In other words, for $14,99 you get a sound engine that looks a lot like the Go Keys, but you have a bigger screen to edit on - even on an iPhone.

[@PianoTone]

That's awesome thanks for sharing all of that info! And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@cinepost]

Thanks is deserved! Just don’t know if I should get this or splurge and just get an Sx920…..would it matter to a below average piano player?

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much!!! Really helps support the channel! As I mentioned I’ve never seen an SX920; but it is a pretty high end arranger keyboard so depends if you think you’d be using all those fancy rhythms and accompaniment features or not

[@cinepost]

@@PianoTone I am going to probably do backing tracks for silent home movies…. Songs from the era of the films shot….dont want a midi keyboard setup, just something I can easily carry back and forth from work.

[@PianoTone]

@@cinepost Wow that sounds cool! EIther one will do the trick, having never seen an SX I can't say for sure how much better it would be for you. Maybe watch some reviews on the SX and see if anything leaps out as "I need THAT" that the Roland doesn't have, otherwise maybe save the $ and get the GO:Keys (it is pretty portable if you're carrying it back and forth)

[@cinepost]

@@PianoTone I got to demo the SX720 in the Guitar Center in Atlanta. The layout actually made sense to me. As a Yamaha guy you would have found your way around easily. The stereo voices were incredibly realistic. There was also a Juno D. Once again, the stereo voices were incredibly real but the Juno D is a performers tool. You could handle it, but I got a little cross-eyed with the navigation. My goals lean towards the arranger architecture. Will probably get a Yamaha arranger.

[@PianoTone]

@@cinepost Nice!

[@patrickfitzgerald2861]

Really well done . . . thanks! I already own a Korg Kross 2, which is similar enough to this machine that I wouldn't buy one of these new. But on the basis of that amazing chord sequencer alone, I will likely pick one up once they start to appear on the resale market later next year.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much! The chord sequencer really is an awesome feature - like having Band In A Box built into your keyboard. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@russelljazzbeck]

Oh wow that audio recording is how you overdub. I don't know how I would have figured that out without you. Unfortunately none of my USBs work, they are too big, apparently it's 32gb max so I just ordered a smaller flash drive. Hopefully it works. Thanks for the in depth, VERY HELPFUL!

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much glad the review was helpful! And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@orangeman1131]

Thank you so much. This was so incredibly helpful. I need to watch it again to absorb everything.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much, glad the review was helpful! And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@sonic2000gr]

The ability to use WC-1 is also a killer feature. Esp. since it also gives you access to virtual instruments on the Roland Cloud. I got this for my GAIA2 and the Roland Cloud is a great addition.

[@PianoTone]

That’s awesome to know thanks for sharing!

[@PianoTone]

​@@beefquiche My understanding is that you can buy inidvidual packs ($5 and up) and you get a lifetime key for those; or, you can have access to many sounds but only as long as you have a membership.

[@sonic2000gr]

@@beefquiche @PianoTone WC-1 will allow you to use everything that would normally require a one time payment, but only as long as you have a subscription. You have to periodically plug WC-1 to the instrument to confirm membership.

[@Esteban.Lagarde]

I have this keyboard and use the bluetooth midi function to automatically change the sounds. I use the Forscore app on my iPad and have a setlist there. I can program midi changes there so when I load up a new sheet music the app changes the sound on my keyboard. I love that being bluetooth I dont have to physically connect my ipad with the keyboard.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@robynwilkinson3096]

Thankyou, this review is fabulous!

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much, glad you found the review helpful. And thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@benler5713]

Very usefull, many thanks !!!👏

[@PianoTone]

Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@mfurman]

Tony, for me “organ” is a pipe organ (one of the oldest instruments dating back to bc) and “other organs” are Hammond, Farfisa, Vox etc 😆 Happy Holidays 😊

[@PianoTone]

LOL true that! Love some of the massive old ones I've seen overseas, would love to play one someday! Thanks as always and all the best over the holidays and in 2025!

[@mfurman]

@ Thank you Tony 😊

[@sonic2000gr]

We got a gokeys 3 as a gift for a friend to start learning. He liked it a lot but all the functions overwhelmed him!

[@PianoTone]

Hopefully my videos will help! More are coming … Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@PianoTone]

@@beefquiche :)

[@pmk351]

Subscribed thanks for the detailed video

[@PianoTone]

Glad you liked the review, and thanks for subscribing!

[@NaukaPoProstu]

Piano Brands should pay you as you don't make much money on YT for those 'not commercial videos' but they are absolutely necessary for actual owners or very seriously considering consumers, which is very important.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much, that's very appreciated! And thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@geoffboyd2895]

Fantastic detailed review as always, for my piano needs i have a older yamaha p255, but currently looking for a fun portable keyboard for small gigs, this could do the job nicely

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much! I bought it for the same reason; 11 lbs, LR line outs, good sounds & decent action! High hopes for using the chord sequencer for backing tracks

[@freddyperezmusicentertainment]

​@@PianoTone hi, how many sounds, can you layer ? Is this a 16 multi sound. Like most others

[@PianoTone]

@@freddyperezmusicentertainment You can layer 2 sounds; most keyboards like this allow you to layer 2 sounds together; some stage keyboards like the Yamaha CK series allow you to layer 3. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@timberwolfenstein]

I just watched your entire video and I enjoyed it! I'm not a pro keyboard player but I can muddle my way through as a guitar player. I'm looking to buy this keyboard or possibly the 425 due to the extra keys. I'm going to use the keyboard for recording onto a digital recorder rather than a DAW. I was curious if either keyboard has drum patches available to be played directly from the keys. Thanks for the video and I appreciate hearing you perform The Beatles and other classics.

[@jeffeason3599]

Great video Tony! Roland has really brought a great set of features to this price point. Will it spur brand-Y to raise their game?

[@PianoTone]

Thanks!! I’m looking forward to Y’s response with new versions of the E-473/EW-425

[@bachtube11]

This is a perfect review! 👍👍👍👍👍 And the music samples are very well played and a tasteful selection of music, a pleasure to listen. one question: Can I use the expression pedal on this instrument in piano mode as a sustain pedal? I have already subscribed.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much! Page 17 of the manual seems to indicate you can; you hit SETTINGS-->COMMON and from there you can go to what the expression pedal does (modulation by default); and within that you can select DAMPER; only problem is - that didn't work for me. Although I am using a 3rd party expression pedal, so maybe this might work with the Roland EV-5 pedal (or maybe some others). My M-Audio pedal does work for other things on the GO:Keys but doesn't seem to work as a damper. Thanks for subscribing!

[@mfurman]

Tony, you have not spent much time in the video talking about Roland WC-1. My practically only reason to get Roland GO:Keys (probably 3) is the option to connect to Roland Cloud and 1 year subscription. Do you use it? Are you planning a video about using it (and Roland Cloud)? Thank you, Michael

[@PianoTone]

I don't have the WC-1, nor have I downloaded any sounds yet (I almost never use VSTs myself, I always stick with keyboard sounds so I don't have to haul pc/tablet around with me as well as keyboards) but I do plan on a demo of downloading something from the Roland Cloud. With the WC-1, I think the main benefit (other than getting a year of full access membership to the RC when you buy it) is convenience. It's meant to allow you to download sounds directly from the cloud without needing the step of downloading it to a computer first then moving it over. And I think you can even browse the sounds using your keyboard to test them out before buying/downloading them with the WC-1. If you're happy with your existing VST sounds for your organs and pianos, I'm not sure it's worth bothering with paying for another keyboard and Roland sounds (unless there's some sounds on their cloud you REALLY REALLY want)

[@mfurman]

@ Thank you VERY MUCH! You are always very helpful. Your channel is the best!

[@spikes028]

I'd love to see a review of Casio CT-S500. It's in direct competition with Roland Go Keys 5.

[@PianoTone]

I'd love to review it, but no music stores where I live stock it (so I can't rent one); I would have to buy it to review it. I will keep my eyes open though! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@cinepost]

love the channel, great review. Hope you can review the SX920 and the new Juno D series sometime soon. You should enable the "Super Thanks" button here on your channel so we can send you a proper thanks!

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much, glad you found the review helpful! Stores in my area never stock the SX series, so I can't rent one to review, but I'll keep my eyes open. I will add the Juno to the rental waitlist though in case I can rent one of those! And "Super" thanks for the suggestion (I didn't even know that was a thing lol; too busy to keep up on alot of that stuff); it's been enabled thanks so much!

[@jamietopolski4019]

I have found that Roland's Zen Core acoustic pianos and electric pianos are "second-tier" in quality. This is why they include the SuperNatural sound engine on their higher-end keyboards like the RD-88. The SuperNatural pianos are much higher quality. I think the Casio CT-S1 has acoustic and electric pianos that are quite good. I think the CT-S1 combined with the Go:Keys 5 would be a terrific 2-board setup. You could run a cable from the headphone out on the CT-S1 to the aux-in on the Go:Keys 5 and then use the 1/4 inch outs to connect to the board or amp.

[@PianoTone]

Yes the supernatural sound engine is definitely more advanced for pianos; although if they put that in the GO:Keys no one would buy FP series anymore ;) A CT-S1 and GO:Keys would be a super light combination!

[@GatisKaulinsh]

On GO:KEYS 5 there are wave expansions that cost 20 euros or so. They are most expensive expansions and they run only on version 5 (version 3 does not support wave expansions). These wave expansions sound amazing and natural!

[@PianoTone]

@@GatisKaulinsh Thanks for sharing that!

[@yuanrao5328]

​@@GatisKaulinsh What is the name of that wave expansion

[@dude134089]

How does the midi work going into an interface and into a dow on a pc? It doesn't seem to have a midi usb port. Thank you!

[@PianoTone]

It does have a USB MIDI port (it's USB-C instead of the usual printer cable style). I wish they'd just used a normal cable (I have tons lying around - had to go buy a USB-C cable and make sure it was a data cable not a charge cable - the charge ones look the same but don't send data/MIDI). Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@thetempleofsound]

Thank you for such a great review. I am curious how the keybed and speakers on the go:keys5 compares to the CK61 which you have reviewed in the past. I know these are very different price points and official uses but I have narrowed these 2 down as my picks for a keyboard to be used as a live instrument, second to my guitar centered show, as well as for jamming and practice while camping etc. I fell in love with the CK61 for its playing feel, it's sounds, ability to tweak on the fly, and especially it's portability with decent practice speakers. But it lacked in number of sounds, especially pads, expandability, and no arpegiator. Now I see the GoKeys5 has many of the features I would have missed on the CK for half the price. But I have no way of trying one out to feel if I like it's keybed or it's speaker. It seems the pianos sound better on the CK, but they also seem good enough on the Go5. I have watched both of your deep dives on these but would love a direct opinion on the comparison between them from someone who has used them both. Thank you so much!

[@PianoTone]

You're right they have 2 very different intended uses. The keybeds are completely different; the Roland is more "pianistic" (true full size keys, piano box shaped, heavier feel); if you've ever played a Casiotone CT-S1, CT-S400/500/1000 those keys would feel kind of similar to the Roland. As far as preference, depends what you're playing and what you like - if you want a piano feel you'll like the Roland better; if you want organ/synth/"all purpose" you'll like the CK better. As far as speakers, you'll need external amplification with both to play live, the Yamaha speakers face down (which I hate), the Roland faces up but they are way smaller, definitely less wattage, and if you push them they can buzz a bit. But I am big on "buy the features you want/need" as opposed to worrying too much about which sound is "better quality" etc. Hope that helps!

[@thetempleofsound]

@@PianoTone Thank you so much for your quick response it was very helpful. Since I found the Roland was on sale for black Friday and based on what you said I got it because it was the info I needed. Unfortunately my concerns were justified. I love the feature set, all the sounds and the ability to navigate the settings are all great. Loving that side of it. But so far I hate the keybed! The keys are a bit stiff for my liking though workable, but the bad part is they often don't even trigger when pressed down all the way during gentle passages. I am shocked at how bad the triggering is. I have adjusted the sensitivity back and forth and it doesn't change the issue at all surprisingly. Certain keys seem worse than others for not triggering. They trigger fine when hit hard but often they don't when played softly, and I like to play softly. I have never experienced this on any keyboard I have ever played. Not sure if I got a dud or if anyone else experiences this? I can play heavy and its fine but when I am feeling the music and playing more sensitive passages some notes just don't play and I am definitely pushing the keys down all the way when this happens. So disappointing. Also the speakers are very unable to handle even the volume at half, rattling and distorting. Terrible design flaw because the speakers sound good enough and loud enough otherwise. Not sure what to do now but will keep playing it for a while and see if I can make it work because for half the price of the CK61 and having several features I really need, I want it to work . But the keys are the most important thing and if I continue to get these issues I'll have no choice but to return it, sad.

[@PianoTone]

@@thetempleofsound Sorry to hear you're not happy with the keybed! Key action is super personal, everyone like and connects with something different; I have heard of some people complaining about the speakers - I'm not sure if it's the speakers or the samples (the rock piano is EQ'd much higher than the main piano, and doesn't seem to push the speakers as hard). I'm all about functionality, but if the key action is bad for you then you might need to look at something else

[@hemantofkanpur]

Hi, firstly, thank you for making detailed and well articulated videos. Lots of appreciation. I am thinking of buying this Roland Go Keys 5. I plan on connecting a mic to it. I wish to then video record my singing and piano playing on my phone. But instead of using the phone's mic to record my piano playing and singing, I want to connect my phone with the go keys 5 via a cable while this video recording is happening, so that i get very high quality audio which is synced to the video. Now, in another video, you showed that we can indeed do this with yamaha psr-e473 and psr-ew425. But in this roland video, you have only shown how to record to a usb drive. Is it not possible to connect the go keys 5 to a phone and record the video, piano and mic simultaneously? Thanks

[@PianoTone]

You can do exactly the same thing with the Roland GO:Keys 5 or 3 as I did with the Yamaha PSR; the Roland also has an audio interface built into the USB connection so it works the same. Just connect from USB straight to your phone and you're good to go (the phone's camera app will use the direct audio instead of its built in mic). Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@hemantofkanpur]

​​@@PianoTonepls see your video from 1:11:24 to 1:12:00 . You said that you are making this video by connecting the Go Keys 5 to your iPhone. 1) Is the mic connected to the Go Keys 5 itself? 2) What mic did you use in this video? 3) Was any external device such as a mixer or an external audio interface used during the making of the video? 4) Also, in these 36 seconds(1:11:24 to 1:12:00), you said that if a video recording is made by sending the audio via the usb to host cable to the phone, then one won't be able to record audio to the usb flash drive. But the video recording app on the phone will still get the audio from the keyboard and the mic connected to the keyboard, right? 5) Finally, do you feel that the audio and video sync pretty well when recording on the phone or is there some noticeable lag between them ? Thanks

[@PianoTone]

@@hemantofkanpur 1) Yup! 2) Samson Q2U (any dynamic mic will work, condenser will not); reviewed the Samson here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKK7doqCrclgp9ksi=YjNj729_SNWZO45T 3) Nope! 4) All I was saying there is if you try to record audio to the flash drive, you won't be able to record to a phone at the same time (but you'd never want to do that anyways) 5) There is no sync necessary and zero lag; the phone just uses the direct audio signal instead of it's built in mic Hope that helps!

[@hemantofkanpur]

@@PianoTone 1) Is there a reason why only a dynamic mic will work with the Go Keys 5? 2) Does.this Go Keys 5 provide gain? I mean, if the audio from.the mic is too.soft, then can the Go Keys 5 act as a preamp and increase the volume of the mic to desired levels while keeping the volume of the piano sound, constant? 3) Can we do some eq, etc to the mic sound on the keyboard itself? I am gifting this to someone who isn't at all tech savvy. She won't be able to do any post production.

[@PianoTone]

@@hemantofkanpur Only dynamic mics will work because condenser mics require phantom power; most mixers do that, I've never seen a keyboard that does though. Yes there is mic gain (that doesn't make up for no phantom power though), and yes you can balance it relative to the voices, rhythms etc. There are also multiple effects you can set for the mic as well

[@樊升亮]

Thanks for the video. I found that the scene function cannot save the global configuration of the keyboard, such as the transposition configuration. The scene function cannot save different transposition data according to different scenes. Is it possible have a way to solve?

[@idemditto]

The 93 effects these are insert effects with an additional 15 global effects? Thank you for the deep review.

[@PianoTone]

The 93 are the effects you can choose from for each voice, then the 15 are the global ones yes. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@manjsingh5073]

I would so like you to review a Casio CTX 5000 even though it has been out 6 years ..

[@PianoTone]

I've never actually even seen a CTX line keyboard. No one where I live sells those, only the CT-S line. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@PianoTone]

@@manjsingh5073 Wow a Tyros cool. Yeah I've never even seen a CTX anything in person.

[@mfurman]

As you alluded to in your video Tony, I did not think that you would be happy with a Roland product 😊

[@PianoTone]

LOL - I actually really liked the FP-E50 just not the action; this one is kind of a semi weighted FP-E50 in a lot of ways …

[@Phillip-y6d]

Will that play 60s combo stuff, like Farfisa or Vox or Yamaha ?

[@PianoTone]

There are tons of voices - they never name the organs “Hammond”, “vox” etc (I’m assuming for licensing); im sure there are Vox voices in there (there might be farfisa - I’m not familiar enough with farfisa to recognize it for sure). Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@Phillip-y6d]

@@PianoTone I think it's called the F wave. I gotta know for sure, so I'm getting the Yamaha YC for that exact reason. I'm so tired of searching. Thanks for responding 👍

[@Phillip-y6d]

@@PianoTone I'm looking at the Tone List and it says Vox Pad under Organ settings at 29 . I just wonder, I'll have to take a trip to Guitar Center to find out, I guess.

[@PianoTone]

Hmm . . . I don't see any voices in the organ section named Vox; there are a bunch of "Vox" in the synth section, but I just tried those out and those are NOT organs (I think they may be vocoders). There are some organs in the organ section that sound "vox'y" to me (they could be farfisas too, like I said I'm really only familiar with hammond). Some examples that sound like vox to me include: 96 Years (211), Glory Us Rock (212), 60s organ (109/110). And there are ton more organs in there. I'm not sure what "vox pad" you're referring to, I searched the tone list for that and couldn't see anything. Hope that helps!

[@Phillip-y6d]

@@PianoTone Thanks, I found the sound list at Roland but it was for the Gokeys 3 , but yeh, that would be 96 years' or 60s organ on the version 5 probably.

[@foudelou]

thanks a lot for this extensive review, it's really informative as always I've got a question about the speakers if you care to answer (important criteria for me) : would you say they sound equal or worse than the EW425 ones for instance ? not in power but the quality of the sound itself, does it sound natural nonetheless (at least for the pianos) ? Are the low notes decent ? And aren't the highs too bright ?

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much! And the speakers on the GO:Keys 5 are ok, but they pale in comparison to the EW425; those are easily the best portable keyboard speakers I've ever encountered. It's not just the added power, Yamaha just makes awesome speakers; but the power does help even if it's not being used - bigger speakers even turned low can handle bass and low end better (in my opinion). Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@jonamodeo1584]

Nice review work, but you failed to mention the Yamaha has split board feature which is very important to working musicians. My guess is the Roland you reviewed does not. Ps I purchased the Yamaha based on your review. Now I need a more piano like feel and the Yamaha falls short with that. Thanks again for your reviews

[@PianoTone]

Oops I didn't demo how to do that in the user interface section did I, sorry about that! I did mention it has splits in the intro though and I did demo it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fp2xnptqqpakfpIsi=bw0x1imglwg-q_vA&t=845 The Roland definitely has a closer feel to a piano than the Yamaha does. I wish Yamaha would offer versions of the PSR-E series with the action from the Piaggero (although then no one would buy a Piaggero lol). Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@DAVEMYZTIKAL]

GREAT REVIEW, THANKS. What is the story with the xtra sound packs which can be downloaded from ROLAN CLOUD. Can you only download via their wifi dongle WC-1? Will the sounds then load onto the internal memory of the GO-5 and stay there? Supposedly one can access 30,000 sounds via Roland Cloud, BUT, are they only usable via the cloud or can any of those sounds be downloaded onto the GO-5? Thank you.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks! Yes you can buy and download them on a pc to a flash drive or directly with their dongle thing - either way the sounds are loaded onto your keyboard. Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@stevewilson9790]

Excellent video. I need a portable keyboard that will use USB midi to play my iPad sounds. Will this go keys 5 work as a midi controller with an iPad please? I have an iPad mini 4 with a lightning cable camera connection kit. Thanks.

[@PianoTone]

Yes it should work fine! And with built in audio interface the MIDI audio will come back through the keyboard without any lag. Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@stevewilson9790]

@@PianoTone Thank you. I just ordered a Go Keys 5. Thanks for the help and the great, honest, informative review. Keep up the good work.

[@SVSV-s8z]

The only review I would trust

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much! And thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@mfurman]

I agree. Tony is the best reviewer!

[@mfurman]

Tony, do you mind asking my which keyboards you currently have? 😊

[@PianoTone]

:)

[@PianoTone]

Yamaha DGX-670, Yamaha PSR-E383, Yamaha PSR-EW425, Studiologic Numa Compact 2X, Roland GO:Keys 5, Hammond SK Pro 73. Yikes too many ;)

[@applegrovebard]

Thanks for this very clear runthrough. Regarding the chord Sequencer, the manual says you can store a chord for each measure or beat. Do you happen to know how to store more than one chord per measure? Also- say I find a tone I like but it has a delay I want to remove- it seems I can only replace the delay with another effect. Is there a way of just turning off the delay?

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much glad you enjoyed the review! I'm working on a video on the chord sequencer that will go into much more detail (including what you're asking) so stay tuned for that. Quick answer is if you press ZOOM on a measure you want to edit, you can insert chords within that measure. And as far as the effect, if you press SETTING on the voice you want to edit then scroll down to FX TYPE you can edit that. Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@applegrovebard]

@@PianoTone Thanks for the prompt and very helpful reply. I managed to successfully program a bebop tune often with two chords per measure. It seems to be quite fiddly having to go in and out of chord edit every time a measure needs more than one chord but you can do it. As regards patches, I do wish I could directly save favourites and user presets. With a thousand or so sounds it would be useful to select a few dozen favourites. I realize you can save 5 sounds to the category buttons and you have the workaround of being able to save a couple of hundred sounds/user presets as part of scenes. I wish the style choices included a comprehensive library of simple, flexible rhythms (just bass and drums would do) eg various funk and jazz rhythms, 6/8 rhythms etc. I wonder if there is some resource or forum where owners can get their questions answered. Eg the sounds often have a variant with 'w' after the name (which sound the same to me), and many sounds have abbreviations in the title many of which I can guess at, but some not eg 'SA'. I look forward to future tutorials on the Go Keys from you- I'm sure many owners will find them useful.

[@PianoTone]

@@applegrovebard Thanks! I do have lots of videos planned . . . .next one will be on the chord sequencer

[@elazar1333]

I'm concerned about the key action on the Go Keys 5. I'm hesitant to order it online and then discover that, despite it's good sound, features and appealing design, the key action might not meet my expectations. I think it would be best to try it out in-store first.

[@elazar1333]

I know these are a little more expensive keyboards but I'm wondering how the go key's 5 compares to Kawai es120 and the Roland fp-30X.

[@PianoTone]

@@elazar1333 It's always best to test key action in person; which weighted action people prefer differs from person to person (I prefer lighter actions like Yamaha GHS action to Roland PHA4, many others are the total opposite). And with non weighted actions like the GO:Keys, those are very difficult to describe so testing them in person will always be important. Keep in mind the GO:Keys is not a fully weighted graded hammer action, so it will not feel as realistic/"piano-like" as the FP-30X or Kawai. I've never tested the Kawai, but I owned an FP-30 and I reviewed the FP-30 and the FP-30X. The FP-30X will have more realistic action and better piano sounds (it has the Supernatural Piano engine which is more advanced than ZEN-Core for piano), but that's where the advantages end. The GO:Keys blows it away in terms of functionality, portability, connectivity and user interface (the user interface on the FP-30X is awful). If you offered to give me one or the other, even though the FP-30X is worth more, I would take the GO:Keys without a second thought. Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@e0236]

@@PianoTone In your review you mentioned that "the only keyboard that is better for piano is the korg liano". Do you think the numa compact is worse for playing piano?

[@PianoTone]

@@e0236 The Numa compact IS actually semi-weighted so it's actually fantastic for playing piano (when compared to any non-weighted keyboards). As far as rating them for piano action it would be: 1) Numa Compact 2) Korg Liano 3) GO:Keys 3/5 4) Casiotone CT-S1 Those 4 all all way better for piano than the synth action style keys on Yamaha PSR-E series keyboards Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@e0236]

@@PianoTone Can we say that this Liano is a high-quality key action like in expensive synthesizers or does it feel like pressing a spring like in children's synthesizers? Do you like playing on weighted or unweighted keyboards? Thank you.

[@boredweegie553]

I've been Yamaha for 35 yes until I got this yesterday as a bday present go keys 3..blows my mind but I certainly wouldn't call it a beginner keyboard even though a lot say it is ...

[@PianoTone]

That's a pretty nice birthday present! And yes it's a pretty amazing keyboard, hope you like it! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@danilotarso]

Thanks Tony, simple and clear, wonderful! So, since GoKeys5 has a built-in audio interface I could, with a proper USB-C cable, use it as an audio source (piano and voice) for online/o livestream lessons ? Also with MIDI bluetooth could it also be used as a source for MuseScore at the same time for example ? Thanks 🙏🏾👍🏼

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much! And . . . absolutely! And the built in mic port makes that even easier. As far as hooking it to Musescore (never tried that app) I don't see why it wouldn't work) Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@Sn00ze]

Another great review! I'm torn between getting a Go Keys 5 and waiting to see if Roland is about to release a successor to the Juno DS that just got discontinued...

[@PianoTone]

I have no idea about that - Juno is a pretty popular line, you have to think they have something coming. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@stevehofer8312]

Roland just did! The Roland Juno-D. I like the looks. It looks very friendly and usable. Starts at $899, and even if it has a lot of the same sounds as the Go Keys, the better display, the pads, the 2-dimention stick/mod and assignable parameters, plus different size keyboard options may make it the better choice for some people.

[@cinepost]

@@stevehofer8312did you get it?

[@stevehofer8312]

@@cinepost No. I might have considered it if it had been out when I was in the market, but last year I bought a Casio CTS500, and it does what I need it to do. To show you how little need I have for it, after I saw this video, I looked on my iPad and realized that I already had a zencore synthesizer with 3,000 sounds on my ipad in the form of the ZC-1 (unlocked) in the Zenbeats program. I think I only paid $10 for the unlocked ZC-1 and it seems like it is effectively the sound engine and most of the presets from the GoKeys Keyboard. It also seems easier to edit the presets than on the Go-Keys. I already had it but I had only used it for a few minutes after I unlocked it, and after that it was out of sight out of mind. There's nothing wrong with it, but I just have lots of other programs to play with.

[@stevehofer8312]

@@cinepost I don't own a Juno D. They should be available everywhere Roland pro-level keyboards are sold. Sweetwater Sound sells a boatload of them. There have been a bunch of videos on the Juno D posted since I posted my comment .

[@dinos2119]

Great work. I can't figure out if Go Keys has stop/break function for the style. Many songs have breaks/pause so arranger without it doesn't work for live gigs. Also when you are programing a song does it mean you can't make breaks like in BandinBox? You mention that it doesn't have music rest

[@PianoTone]

Thanks! By not having a music rest, I meant the thing that connects to the back of the keyboard that holds music paper/ipad. There is a chord fingering option that stops the accompaniment (except for the drums) if your left hand is not holding down a chord, so you could use that for breaks. As far as programming in breaks to the chord sequencer I would have to test that (I will be making a video soon on the chord sequencer so stay tuned). Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@followyourpassion8378]

Does the GoKeys have class compliant USB audio/MIDI? Does it have a USB loopback off setting? Meaning: USB can be monitored on the GoKeys headphone jack, but doesn't get send to the USB out. Is it multi-timbral, so it csn be used for sequencing with a DAW and playing back the full arrangement? Cheers

[@PianoTone]

According to the specs on their site: "USB COMPUTER port: USB Type-C® (Class Compliant for Audio and MIDI)" :) I don't have the board with me at the moment, but I'm pretty sure you can turn audio loopback on and off (kind of necessary for boards with USB audio interfaces). As far as the multi timbral question, are you wondering if I'll get multi tracks on a DAW if I record with accompaniment using MIDI? That I don't know, but I am planning a video on MIDI and audio recording with the GO:Keys so stay tuned for that. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@followyourpassion8378]

@PianoTone Thanks! I would like to sequence track after track on a different channel (and different instrument) in my DAW (all MIDI) and then play all the channels back on the Roland GoKeys. Say channel 1: Bass, 2:epiano,:3: pad, 10:drums. I sold my Korg Nautilus 88, because you couldn't (!!!) turn off USB audio loopback. Looking forward to your video.

[@henryfung5468]

Thank you for your in-depth analysis. I purchased the Go:Keys 5 because of the chord sequencer. I began to program whole songs into it. However, I couldn’t find a way to stop the accompaniment and/or drum in the middle of a sequence automatically (i.e. programmed into the chord sequence) for a bar or two. Are you aware of a way to do that?

[@LorenzoMiele.O_o]

Hey! would you reccomend a go keys 5 or a yamaha psr ew 425 from personal preference?

[@PianoTone]

That’s tough - I am planning a comparison video soon. In general: Roland: - better action - chord sequencer - easier access to registrations - more chord detection modes (including full keyboard) Yamaha: - WAY better speakers - 76 keys vs 61 - live control knobs - better piano/EP sounds (that’s personal preference though) Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@LorenzoMiele.O_o]

@@PianoTone thanks, i already subscribed

[@luisolivan2497]

I love your reviews, they're so comprehensive, honest and clear. Thanks! Just a quick question: I'm learning piano and I want my first digital piano to be good enough as to keep it for years. I'm currently struggling to choose between the Numa Compact 2 (or 2X) and Roland Go: Keys 3 (or 5). I've watched both of your review videos several times. Number of keys aside, which would be your choice? Thanks a lot!

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much! As far as comparing those 2, if you're a beginner I would probably lean towards the Roland. The Numa does have better key action (& more keys), but the rest of its advantages are all geared towards stage keyboard use by a gigging musician. The Roland however, has so many other features that would be great for learning: built in rhythms and accompaniment are great for practice, as are the built in chord sequencer patterns; and it's alot easier to use. Bluetooth audio in makes it easy to stream in external audio (online piano lessons, KZbin videos etc) to also help you learn. On that topic, make sure you check out my reviews for online courses; if you want to learn modern music I would highly recommend the Piano Man Approach or Bird's Piano Academy. kzbin.info/aero/PL_W0EMCT9oNb7OQ7TiB0WHZv7K4k1bScA Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@luisolivan2497]

@@PianoTone Thanks a lot again! ❤️

[@gruposoloshow]

Are you able to edit o make your own rhythms in go key 5 in style mode?

[@PianoTone]

No you can’t edit the actual rhythms at all. Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@akdm82]

I still love the Go:Keys but the lack of 5 pin DIN or TRS MIDI is disappointing. Even my Reface DX has that, though through an adapter that is included. To only have USB MIDI and Bluetooth MIDI but no standard MIDI is a bit of an odd choice to me.

[@PianoTone]

Yeah it would have been great for them to just take it one step further (especially with the built in audio interface) …. But you can’t have everything I guess :D Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@tonyvenuti]

I have a GO KEYS 5. In performance, I need to be able to mute the line outputs, while still using the headphones for settings changes. I can not find0x that capability through the menus. How is it done?

[@PianoTone]

I don’t think you can do that on the keyboard; I think you’d need to connect your line outs to a mixer first and use the mixer to mute the line outs. Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@MayaM-hr9kb]

Again, another fantastic review! Competitors? .....none.....LOL

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe (if you haven’t already)

[@ajalimagno1097]

Which one will you choose, Yamaha PSR 383 or This Roland Go:Keys 3?

[@PianoTone]

I would choose the Roland for the better key action,connectivity and chord sequencer. Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@ajalimagno1097]

@@PianoTone Thanks. I want the Go:Keys 5 but I can only afford the 3 version. Do you think I can already jam with a band using the 3 version?

[@PianoTone]

You would need external amplification, the speakers won’t be of much use.

[@ajalimagno1097]

@@PianoTone but if in the home only will it suffice?

[@pc2nite]

Did you find the action noticeably more resistant than Casio ct-s1 or Yamaha np-35? Another reviewer captured a digital force gauge with a 50% higher reading than either. Like you he said he came to like the action after a period of adjustment. A test of the action of the previous go piano model in a store suggests this aspect might be an ongoing design decision by Roland but it caused me to move on pretty swiftly. I don’t mind using some extra arm weight to start a key off but I really don’t like constantly applying it to keep the key down. Pianos, real ones only I’m afraid, at least don’t seem to have this latter inconvenience.

[@PianoTone]

I definitely found it heavier than either the CTS1 or NP35; those are “almost semi weighted feel”, the Roland feels very much like an actual semi-weighted keybed. Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@pc2nite]

​@@PianoTone Thanks for the channel. Please add keybed force weight measurements. 'Semi-weighted feel' is questionable marketing-speak. Please don't use it. It implies that a cheap, sprung only, unweighted action can feel like a semi-weighted one by using stronger springs. The beneficial effects of gravity apply to weights not springs.

[@JeanV1986]

Very good review, thanks. I could use a bit of help. I have a GK3 and was very happy with it, but I could grab a GK5 for a good price, so I gave it a go. My idea was to enjoy better speakers and more outputs. Unfortunately, I am getting some kind of distortion with various sounds as acoustic Piano or electric piano, even at low volumes when playing softly. I posted a sample on my YT page. I read on reddit forums that quite a few people seem to have a similar issue, so I hesitate to send it back to Roland... I would like to have your opinion on this. Can you replicate the same issue on yours? Thanks in advance :)

[@PianoTone]

I had a distortion noise as well on mine that made me think something was wrong with the speakers; then I removed my flash drive . . . and it stopped! I put it back in, and it was back. I tried holding the drive while I played and that made it go away! It's like that port might be loose or something and(or) is right up against the speaker box (maybe?). At any rate it was a strange issue I had but totally was the flash drive. Wondering if maybe the speaker box itself might have some issues causing anything loose to shake? If you're using a flash drive, try taking it out, if not, try things like pressing on the case etc to see if it's an actual speaker distorting or if it's a shaking issue. Also, make sure to update the firmware. Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@JeanV1986]

@@PianoTone thanks for the quick response. Unfortunately, it didn't make a difference in my case.

[@shiakij9806]

It happens to mine either. Even though the shop try to help me by changing the speakers for two times (Roland new speakers) the distortion still exists :(

[@dodododplay]

細節，喜歡

[@PianoTone]

Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@paulmartin3946]

Don't laugh, but can I play this through bluetooth Sonos Roams?

[@PianoTone]

The Bluetooth audio is audio IN not out (no keyboard I know of sends audio out with Bluetooth). If that speaker has a wired input then you could connect it and use it. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@paulmartin3946]

@@PianoTone Thanks Tony that's helpful, I suspected that was the case. I am a big fan of Jean Michel Jarre. Would this be suitable for playing that type of music? Great video buddy. Best wishes from England.

[@GabrielRocha-po9fz]

I only had super cheap keyboards, I sold my CT-S300 and I'm torn between the Casio CT-S500, the Yamaha PSR E473 and the new Roland GO:Keys 5. Which of those is better in terms of overall keybed feel, sounds and functions? I was leaning towards the Casio CT-S500 because of its size, but the Micro-USB is lame for me, it is not a robust connection, Roland and Yamaha instead use USB-C and printer USB port (the square one), much better. I really don't know what to choose, because each one has its pros and cons, and they sort of complement each other.

[@PianoTone]

I've never seen a CT-S500. but I used to own a CT-S1 and the keyboard feel on that was always better (for piano pieces) than the PSR-E series. But the GO:Keys 5 is a step up on the CT-S1 (and CT-S500) for keybed feel. It's a bit heavier feeling, and the keys are true full size (the CT-S500 and PSR-E are slightly narrower key width). And the GO:Keys has way better features, including the Chord Sequencer, and built in USB audio interface. I would recommend the Roland personally. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@doskungen]

Piano Tone! Thanks for the in-depth review. I have a question for you regarding this keyboard and that is if you get distorted sound/crackle in the sound through the built in speakers if you play something like Jazz Organ or E-Pianos? I bought this keyboard and LOVE it but had these issues with the built in speakers so returned it. Roland tells me this isn't supposed to be an issue and I am trying to figure out if I just got a unit from an early manufacturing batch with potential issues or if this IS a "thing"... want to buy it again for keeps but depends on this... See this YT video for the problem in action: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fXO3dpeKeLGUqLM

[@PianoTone]

I've never noticed any distortion out of the speakers myself, but I have heard alot of people complaining about those issues online. Roland doesn't disclose how many watts they are, but in a keyboard this size I'm sure they're not that powerful, so some distortion especially with sounds with strong low end isn't too surprising. I always play with headphones at home or out of an amp at band practices, so I never use speakers on any of my keyboards anyways; would always recommend studio monitors for home if you don't want to use headphones. Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe!

[@doskungen]

@@PianoTone Thank you so much for your reply. My intention is to use this keyboard as a portable instrument and so I would've liked it if I didn't have to carry portable speakers with me as well. I think the sound out of the built in speakers is actually very nice and dynamic but if the "crackle" is something that happens because of too much bass then they really should've dialled it back a smidgeon. This is such an amazing instrument at the pricepoint... :)

[@jtc1947]

If they get a model with 88 keys then wake me up!

[@PianoTone]

That would be an awesome idea! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@heinzstein99]

🙂

[@PianoTone]

Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@topbraineducation8363]

Honestly, I love everything but the speakers....The speakers sound like a toy... Once connect the keyboard with other speakers, it sounds much better.

[@PianoTone]

Yeah any small super portable keyboard isn't going to have great speakers - the portable keyboard or digital piano with the best speakers I've heard is the Yamaha PSR-EW425 - 24 watts and 12 cm which is awesome. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe